Jakarta. Higher Education, Science and Technology Minister Brian Yuliarta says around 10% of the seven million children screened through the Health Ministry’s free health screening program in 2025–2026 showed signs of mental health problems.

Around 4.4% showed symptoms of anxiety, while 4.8% showed symptoms of depression, Brian said during a national seminar in Jakarta on Tuesday.

Data from 2023 also showed that the highest prevalence of depression was recorded among people aged 15–24, at 2%. However, only around 10% of those showing signs of depression had sought medical or psychological help.

Brian warned that the issue could have wider implications as Indonesia approaches the end of its demographic bonus, a period when the country has a relatively large working-age population.

“Indonesia’s demographic bonus will end in 2046. After that, the working-age population will decline,” Brian said, warning that the country could eventually face challenges similar to those experienced by aging societies such as Japan and several European countries.

He also called on universities to make psychological services more accessible and less stigmatized. Students may still feel ashamed or believe they are “a problem” when seeking help from psychologists or campus counseling services.

The government is therefore encouraging universities to create more approachable mental health facilities that students can use without fear of being judged.

Dicky C. Pelupessy, dean of the Faculty of Psychology at the University of Indonesia, said universities are ready to help address the shortage of mental health services, particularly at primary healthcare facilities such as community health centers.

He urged the government to streamline regulations governing psychologists and other mental health professionals working in primary healthcare, arguing that psychology graduates with professional qualifications could help expand access to mental health services alongside clinical psychologists and other professionals.

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